Commencement 2018

Stories, photos, and features from Rochester’s 168th Commencement ceremonies.

Each year during commencement weekend, the University of Rochester recognizes its graduating students and their families, outstanding faculty and alumni, special guests, and other honorees. Enjoy this overview of Commencement 2018 in pictures.

Awards for outstanding contributions of distinguished leaders, educators and humanitarians will be presented at the 168th Commencement ceremonies on May 18, 19, and 20, and at the Simon Business School ceremony on June 10.

Ceremony highlights: Arts, Sciences & Engineering and the Eastman School of Music

Some students know from early on in their college careers what they want to study because of strong interests they’ve developed previously or because of their longterm goals. Some students don’t know what they will major in, and many change their minds during or after the first year.

More than 1,320 undergraduates in the College will receive degrees during commencement ceremonies. Here's a snapshot of where the students in the graduating class call home when they're not in Rochester.

Each year, the Office of Parent and Family Relations invites seniors to submit a brief entry to honor their parents and families. The graduates share messages of gratitude, appreciation, and humor related to family support, guidance, and encouragement.

Four years ago, as we sat together as a class on the quad during Convocation, none of us could have imagined how many experiences, challenges, and opportunities we would find over the course of our time here.